Bus Accident Lawyer New York County for Your Injury Case

Maximize Your Compensation with Our Legal Support

Many individuals rely on public transit most days of the year for reliable, safe transport to and from work, school, and a variety of other venues in New York County. Unfortunately, buses are sometimes involved in accidents, which can lead to significant injuries to the passengers on board. If you have been injured in a bus accident, you should discuss your case with a dependable personal injury firm. When you turn to Restivo & Murphy LLP, we can help you take the necessary steps to maximize your settlement.

Bus accidents can involve complex legal and procedural challenges, including dealing with multiple parties such as the bus company, insurance firms, and potentially public entities like the city's transit authority. Each of these parties may have different standards of liability and timelines for filing a claim. It is essential to have experienced legal representation that understands these nuances and can navigate the claim efficiently.

Contact our New York City bus accident lawyers at (800) 997-9109 to discuss how much your case could be worth.

Understanding Common Causes of Bus Accidents in NYC

As you might imagine, driving a large vehicle through New York City requires an exceptional level of skill. Bus drivers undergo extensive training and have to meet higher licensing standards than most automobile drivers. However, there are times when even the best drivers make mistakes or cannot avoid a situation that leads to an accident.

There are numerous factors that might contribute to these accidents. For instance, heavy urban traffic can create high-pressure environments for bus drivers, leading to split-second decisions where the margin for error is small. Additionally, inclement weather conditions can exacerbate the risks of operating large vehicles, making it harder to navigate safely. Understanding these elements can aid in determining the causative factors and assigning liability.

There are several causes of bus accidents, including:

Liability Considerations in NYC Bus Accidents

One of the top concerns in any personal injury claim is who can be held responsible for the losses the victim has incurred. Similar to a truck accident, in a bus accident, there are several potential parties who may be liable – there may even be several parties at fault for the same accident. When you work with Restivo & Murphy LLP, our experienced bus accident attorney in New York County can identify all the at-fault parties to ensure you receive the compensation you are owed.

Determining liability can be multifaceted, often involving an in-depth investigation to gather evidence such as surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and vehicle maintenance records. Our team is adept at piecing together these elements to form a comprehensive picture of how the accident occurred and who should be held accountable. This thorough approach is crucial in pursuing a successful claim.

Some of the parties we can seek to hold responsible for your injuries include:

Understanding Bus Accident Laws in New York County

In New York County, bus accident claims are governed by a complex set of laws and regulations. It's crucial to understand the rules that apply to public transportation and the specific deadlines for filing claims against government entities. The statute of limitations can vary depending on whether the claim is against a private company or a public entity like the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Given these complexities, timely and knowledgeable legal guidance is essential.

Additionally, New York’s no-fault insurance laws means that passengers involved in bus accidents may initially seek compensation through personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. However, in cases where severe injuries occur, pursuing a claim outside of the no-fault system may be necessary. Familiarity with these legal frameworks ensures that victims are fully aware of their rights and options for pursuing compensation.

Compensation Options for Bus Accident Victims in NYC

If you have been injured in a bus accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, you are likely entitled to recover compensation for your losses. As many injuries resulting from these types of accidents are serious and life-altering, you will need some way to cover the costs of medical care and make up for lost wages.

Compensation may also include non-economic damages, which account for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. It's important to document the impact of the injuries on your daily life, including any long-term physical limitations or changes in lifestyle. Such documentation can play a critical role in negotiating a fair settlement or presenting your claim in court.

There are several types of damages you could be compensated for, including:

Essential Steps to Take After a Bus Accident in NYC

The most important thing to do directly after a bus accident is to seek medical attention for any injuries. Even if you feel fine, you should still see a doctor, since some injuries don’t show symptoms until several hours or days after. If you are able, while at the scene of the accident, you should take photographs, exchange information, gather witness contact info, and call the police.

Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments and any related expenses. Consistently update this documentation, as it will be vital for demonstrating the extent and cost of your injuries when seeking compensation. Additionally, consider keeping a personal injury journal to note daily pain levels, emotional impacts, and any significant changes to your lifestyle or ability to work.

Finally, you should consult with our New York City bus accident attorneys as soon as possible. We can help you deal with insurance companies, file your claim, and represent your case in court if necessary.

Call Restivo & Murphy LLP at (800) 997-9109 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Accidents in New York County

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bus Accident?

After a bus accident, it is crucial to ensure your safety and seek medical attention immediately, as injuries might not be apparent until hours or days later. Make sure to report the accident to the police, as their report will be valuable for any legal proceedings. Gathering evidence at the scene, such as taking photographs, noting witnesses, and exchanging information with all parties involved, is essential. Consulting a lawyer experienced in bus accidents in New York County as soon as possible can help protect your rights and ensure you take the right steps from the beginning.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bus Accident?

Several parties can be held liable in a bus accident depending on the circumstances. The bus driver, if negligent, is one possibility. The bus company could be responsible if issues such as poor maintenance contributed to the accident. Alternatively, another vehicle's driver may be liable if they caused the collision. When municipal buses are involved, government entities may also share liability if it’s proven that failure to adhere to safety protocols was a factor. Identifying the liable parties requires thorough investigation and expertise in public transport claims.

How Does the No-Fault Law Affect My Claim?

New York's no-fault insurance law mandates that your own insurance provider covers medical bills and lost wages up to a certain amount, regardless of who was at fault. However, if your injuries are severe, you may step outside the no-fault system to pursue additional compensation for pain and suffering from the at-fault party. Navigating these laws can be complex, and having seasoned legal guidance ensures all aspects of your claim are managed correctly and efficiently.

What Compensation Am I Entitled To?

Bus accident victims in New York County may be entitled to a range of compensations, depending on the accident's impact. Economic damages often cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost income due to inability to work. Non-economic damages may include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment of life activities. For effective pursuit of these compensations, documentation of how the injuries affect daily life is fundamental.

How Can Restivo & Murphy LLP Assist With My Claim?

At Restivo & Murphy LLP, we are dedicated to providing personal, thorough legal representation to individuals injured in bus accidents. Our experience includes dealing with insurance companies, identifying liable parties, and understanding the intricacies of both lawsuits and no-fault insurance claims in New York County. Our approach centers around supporting our clients throughout the legal process, ensuring that they receive the compensation they deserve and their needs are addressed at every step by our dedicated bus accident lawyer in New York County.

Call Restivo & Murphy LLP at (800) 997-9109 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.